Study on the Meaning of Lex Voluntatisin the Choice of Law in International Private Law

Zhaohua MENG

Abstract

As an important connecting point in international private law, the discussions on autonomy of the parties (Lex Voluntatis) never stop. In practice, Lex Voluntatis works as a connecting point or Formula of Attribution rather than a common principle. The position of Lex Voluntatis in international private laws all over the world can be shown via value analysis: on one hand, the well-known Lex Voluntatis derives from the parties’ pursuit on material and spiritual requirement; on the other hand, Lex Voluntatis is understood differently from places to places. Counties from different legal systems usually have their own special requirements on the understanding of Lex Voluntatis; last, Lex Voluntatis focuses on the respect of the freedom of individual will.